PESHAWAR: Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar stated on Friday that while different political parties hold varying opinions regarding the upcoming general election, the caretaker government is committed to conducting the polls promptly once the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announces the schedule.
The caretaker PM emphasized that every political party registered with the ECP has the right to submit nomination papers for their candidates. He shared these remarks while speaking with the media about the caretaker government’s responsibility to ensure a fair playing field for all political parties.
When asked about the potential return of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, PM Kakar assured that all actions would be carried out in accordance with the law.
Additionally, the prime minister expressed Pakistan’s desire to establish a “healthy” relationship with Afghanistan and promote cross-border movement in accordance with globally recognized principles.
PM Kakar stressed the need for a regulated system of movement between the two countries, adhering to international standards for visas and passports, with the goal of transitioning from the current strained relationship to a more positive one.
Regarding Afghan nationals residing in Pakistan, PM Kakar acknowledged that not all, but a portion of them are involved in undesirable activities. He mentioned that Pakistan faces various challenges, including social issues, crime, and militancy, and will act in its best interests.
The prime minister affirmed that the policy is to repatriate illegally residing Afghan nationals, clarifying that this does not mean cutting ties with Afghanistan. He noted the absence of these illegal Afghan nationals in any official database, which presents a challenge for Pakistan.
PM Kakar disclosed that provinces have shared their concerns about identifying, accommodating, and repatriating illegal Afghan nationals with the federal government, and these issues are under consideration. A rationalized policy will be implemented to ensure the burden is evenly distributed between provinces and the federal government for a smooth execution.
On the topic of negotiations with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), PM Kakar categorically ruled out any future talks and asserted that the state possesses the strength to combat the banned terror group, even if it takes a year or a century.
“We have no intention to engage in talks with TTP. They are responsible for the loss of our children, and we will take action against them,” the prime minister declared.
PM Kakar commended the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) for confronting militancy on the frontlines and raised questions about how other regions would have handled a similar situation.
“KP has faced militancy on the front line, and I wonder how others would have responded in such a situation,” PM Kakar stated, underscoring the sacrifices required to secure the future generation and fulfill Pakistan’s aspirations. “Is the future generation secure even after the sacrifices of 90,000 people?”
Earlier, the prime minister held a meeting with KP Governor Ghulam Ali and the caretaker KP Chief Minister Muhammad Azam Khan, where he received a briefing on the overall security situation in the province.
PM Kakar also met Constable Umar Saeed, who courageously thwarted a militant attack in Hangu district, and awarded him Rs0.5 million.
(Islamabad51_Newsdesk)
